A statement posted on the pop star's site in English, Spanish and Catalan says that "just like his father, baby Milan became a member of FC Barcelona at birth." The statement also says Milan weighed approximately 6 pounds, 6 ounces (2.9 kilograms), and that "both mother and child are in excellent health."

Shakira asked fans earlier Tuesday on Twitter "to accompany me in your prayers on this very important day of my life."

USA TODAY's Ann Oldenburg points out that Milan, the couple's first child, means dear, loving and gracious in Slavic; in Ancient Roman, eager and laborious; and in Sanskrit, unification." (And it's the name of a major industrial city in Italy.)

Pique, a center back, has 124 caps for Barcelona since 2008 and has scored nine goals. He made his senior debut with Manchester United in October 2004 as a late replacement for John O'Shea and made his full debut on March 29, 2006. Man U loaned Pique to Spanish League team Real Zaragoza on Aug. 4, 2006, before returning to Manchester for the 2007-08 season.

Pique has also represented the Spanish national team, making his debut on 11 February 2009. He played an integral role in the Spain team that won the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012.